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Maya SkullOctavio del Rio examines an ancient Maya skull, well-preserved in the low-oxygen environment of an underwater cave. The scene was captured by underwater photographer and explorer Wes C. Skiles, whose incredible images grace this gallery. Skiles died July 21 while filming and diving in the ocean off the Florida coast. His breathtaking coverage of blue holes is National Geographic magazine’s August cover story. “Wes was a true explorer in every sense and a wonderful spirit,” Editor in Chief Chris Johns said. "He set a standard for underwater photography, cinematography, and exploration that is unsurpassed. It was an honor to work with him, and he will be deeply missed." Among many other endeavors, Skiles was a key part of the Blue Holes Project.
Photograph by Wes C. Skiles

Spectacular Underwater Archaeology Photos by Wes Skiles

Amazing photos taken by Wes C. Skiles, a pioneering underwater photographer who died off Florida on July 21, 2010.